The Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, is reportedly preparing to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on November 19.
A reliable source within the APC said that all plans have been completed to receive the governor during a major rally in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital. The source added that the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, will personally lead the delegation that will welcome Kefas into the party.
It was also revealed that Kefas’ planned defection was discussed at the APC leadership meeting held on Wednesday at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja. According to the insider, “Everything is already set for the Taraba governor’s arrival into the APC.”
Governor Kefas had earlier hinted at the move during a meeting with both APC and PDP stakeholders at the Banquet Hall of TY Danjuma House in Jalingo. Speaking at the gathering, he said, “Yes, a rumour is indeed circulating, and I’m also hearing that rumour. Sometimes, when a rumour keeps moving like that, it makes someone think it could be something good. I am also hearing that rumour, and I am working on it to see that it becomes a reality. So, by the grace of God, in a few days after next week, you will hear from me.”
The governor’s statement has since confirmed speculation about his possible move to the APC, as some of his supporters have already expressed their readiness to follow him to the ruling party.
Earlier, key APC stakeholders in Taraba State had shown support for Kefas’ expected defection during a meeting at the Jalingo residence of party chieftain Danladi Baido. The meeting, which brought together leaders from across the state’s 16 local government areas and two development zones, was meant to reaffirm unity and pledge support to the governor.
Participants at the meeting described Kefas’ planned move as “timely” and “strategic,” noting that it could bring more federal projects and development opportunities to Taraba State.
Meanwhile, an APC source disclosed that the party is also in advanced talks with Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri about joining the APC. The source said, “The defection of Governor Fintiri is already a settled matter. After Taraba, Adamawa is next.”
At present, the APC controls Borno, Gombe, and Yobe States in Nigeria’s North-East region, while the PDP governs Bauchi, Taraba, and Adamawa.